Times of India

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman defended AI's energy use by comparing it to human development, but Zoho founder Sridhar Vembu disagreed, advocating for technology to recede into the background. Vembu also likened large tech companies to the East India Company due to their immense financial power and operational scale.

Kshatriya Karni Sena chief Raj Shekhawat issued a stern warning to filmmakers, threatening to confront them at their homes in Mumbai over movies allegedly targeting "Sanatan Dharma" and hurting religious sentiments. The group specifically objected to "Yadav Ji Ki Love Story" and "Ghooskhor Pandat," accusing filmmakers of disrespecting faith and social groups.

Following his release from Tihar Jail on interim bail, veteran actor Rajpal Yadav has broken his silence regarding his ongoing legal battle. The comedian, who secured temporary relief in a cheque bounce case after depositing Rs 1.5 crore, expressed profound gratitude to the film fraternity and fans for their support during this challenging period. Ahead of his next court hearing on March 18, 2026, Yadav specifically highlighted the vital role of his wife, Radha, in anchoring their family. While adhering to court conditions, including the surrender of his passport, the actor has promised a comprehensive press conference to provide legal context and finally present "his side of the story" to the public.

The Indian Coast Guard has intercepted a suspicious foreign vessel inside India’s Exclusive Economic Zone, around 115 nautical miles west of Dwarka. The boat, identified as Al Mukhtar, had four Iranian crew members and was found carrying 200 cartons of smuggled foreign-brand cigarettes. The vessel has been taken into custody.

The Indian Air Force will conduct Exercise Vayushakti-26 on February 27, 2026, at Pokhran to showcase its operational capabilities, including long-range precision strikes and multi-domain operations. The exercise will highlight indigenous platforms and the IAF's role as a first responder, demonstrating its ability to win future conflicts and reinforce national security.

Jazeera Airways has launched a groundbreaking 'Fly Now, Pay Later' option, becoming the first Kuwaiti airline to offer interest-free installment payments for flights. This strategic partnership with deema aims to enhance travel affordability and accessibility for a wider range of passengers. The move signifies a significant step in the region's digital aviation transformation.

Dalal Street faces renewed uncertainty as US President Trump increased global import tariffs to 15%, just after the Supreme Court struck down his earlier program. Investors are concerned about the unpredictability of trade tensions, despite expectations that the current rate may be temporary. This development adds to existing pressures on Indian equities from Fed policy and weak IT stocks.

Assam's Opposition Leader Debabrata Saikia downplayed former state Congress chief Bhupen Kumar Borah's defection to the BJP, stating it won't impact upcoming elections. Saikia highlighted that local Congress leaders and workers from Borah's constituency remain loyal, assuring no significant harm to the party's prospects. Borah, after 32 years with Congress, officially joined the BJP on Sunday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized the Congress party for its "shirtless" protest at the AI Impact Summit, calling it "dirty and shameless" politics. The protest by Indian Youth Congress workers, who wore T-shirts with the slogan "India-US Trade Deal Compromised," drew widespread condemnation, including from allies. Four IYC workers were sent to police custody.

Sanjay Manjrekar has voiced concerns over Suryakumar Yadav's cautious batting approach in the T20 World Cup, suggesting it hinders finishers like Hardik Pandya. While acknowledging Suryakumar's adaptability against the USA, Manjrekar believes the captain has since become overly conservative, potentially risking India's scoring potential, especially when setting or chasing large totals.

The Reserve Bank of India has established a high-security data center in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, to protect critical financial systems. This strategic location minimizes exposure to cross-border threats and seismic risks, ensuring operational continuity. The facility supports core banking functions and enhances the safety and resilience of India's financial infrastructure.

Former CIA officer John Kiriakou claimed the US has decided to launch military strikes on Iran within days, citing a source who visited the White House. He said internal divisions exist, with JD Vance and Tulsi Gabbard opposing action, while Marco Rubio backs it, as US forces reposition across the Middle East.

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh attacked the Centre over the proposed India-US interim trade pact, calling it “Abki baar Trump se haar” and demanding it be put in cold storage and renegotiated. He warned agri import liberalisation would hurt farmers across states and questioned the deal’s timing amid US tariff turmoil after a Supreme Court ruling against Donald Trump’s earlier measures.

Brothers Morne and Albie Morkel will face off as rival coaches in the T20 World Cup Super 8 clash between India and South Africa. Morne coaches India's bowling attack, while Albie serves as a consultant for South Africa, both aiming for victory despite their family ties. Their childhood backyard rivalries are now amplified on the international stage.

Sohail Khan visited father Salim Khan at Lilavati Hospital amid his minor brain haemorrhage and ventilator support since Feb 17. Paparazzi caught him leaving with security. Family upset over media leaks; celebs like Ranveer Singh, Aamir Khan visited.

IDFC First Bank reported a Rs 590 crore discrepancy in Haryana government deposits at its Chandigarh branch, suspending four employees. The bank has initiated a forensic audit and is working with other banks to recover funds. This disclosure follows Haryana's directive for departments to close accounts with specific private lenders due to suspected financial irregularities.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Meerut Metro and Namo Bharat services in Uttar Pradesh, dedicating development works worth Rs 12,930 crore. The 82 km Delhi-Meerut Namo Bharat Corridor, designed for speeds up to 180 kmph, enhances regional connectivity. The Meerut Metro, operating on the same infrastructure, is set to become India's fastest metro network.